SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is gearing up to commence full-fledged developmental trials of the Astra MkII beyond-visual-range (BVR) missile from next year. This significant milestone brings India closer to fielding a state-of-the-art air-to-air missile capable of neutralizing threats at long ranges.
The Astra MkII, an upgraded version of the existing Astra MkI missile, boasts an impressive range of 140-160 kilometres against fighter-sized targets. It has already undergone multiple air-to-air trials, including an unguided mode test to evaluate its Dual-Pulse motor.
Equipped with an advanced Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) seeker, the Astra MkII is poised to demonstrate its capabilities in the upcoming trials. These tests will involve engaging aerial targets at distances exceeding 100 kilometres, marking a crucial step towards production clearance by 2026.
In addition to long-range engagements, the Astra MkII will also be evaluated for within-visual-range (WVR) targets at approximately 20 kilometres. This will assess its effectiveness in close-quarters combat scenarios.
The Astra MkII represents a significant advancement in India’s indigenous missile development capabilities. Its long-range, advanced seeker and dual-pulse motor provide it with the potential to neutralize a wide range of aerial threats. The successful completion of the upcoming trials will pave the way for the Astra MkII to become a cornerstone of India’s air defence capabilities.
NOTE : Article cannot be reproduced without written permission of idrw.org in any form even for YouTube Videos to avoid Copy right strikes. Websites doing illegal reproductions will get DMCA and Legal Notices.